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Starting to commute, any tips?

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Old 08-14-18, 12:24 AM
  #26  
CliffordK
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Originally Posted by Romyan
U lock
A lot depends on your bike and risk. And how desperate the potential thieves are.

Not all U-Locks are equal.. Kryptonite NY and similar locks are the strongest, but also the heaviest.

Typically one snags the Frame, One Wheel, and a rack or post with the lock.

A second lock, chain, or cable can secure the other wheel

In extreme risk places, there are ways to secure the seat and other parts.
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Old 08-14-18, 01:30 AM
  #27  
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All you gotta do
is put your mind to it
knuckle down
buckle down
and do it do it do it
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Old 08-14-18, 02:08 AM
  #28  
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Originally Posted by Papa Tom
Is there an alternate route, maybe even slightly longer, that will avoid the uphill stretch? 1.2 miles is not a lot. If it already feels like you're riding three miles, perhaps you can find a three mile route that is flatter and won't make you toil and sweat so hard?
Barely a warm up. But once he begins to enjoy cycling, perhaps he'll start taking the long way home?
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Old 08-14-18, 05:59 AM
  #29  
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Most of what you will learn is by doing. After commuting a few weeks or months, you will realize your needs regarding luggage and lights. Just be careful out there.
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Old 08-14-18, 08:50 AM
  #30  
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Originally Posted by KraneXL
Barely a warm up. But once he begins to enjoy cycling, perhaps he'll start taking the long way home?
Yeah I am considering it, my current route isn't too comfortable as it's on a main road. But not too bad to ride, there are 2 other routes I know that would be longer and take me home.
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Old 08-14-18, 09:03 AM
  #31  
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Originally Posted by Eds0123
No harm was intended, and personally I find it flattering most of the times when another cyclist or forum member quotes me, ... :-) :-)
No harm done; you did see the winkie, I hope?
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Old 08-14-18, 09:12 AM
  #32  
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Originally Posted by Romyan
Yeah I am considering it, my current route isn't too comfortable as it's on a main road. But not too bad to ride, there are 2 other routes I know that would be longer and take me home.
Learn to love the sweat, and the burn in your legs, and moving under your own power, and it won't be long before you're riding all the routes and looking for more. They say you have to do something 60 times before it becomes a habit; sounds like you're well on your way. Welcome!
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Old 08-14-18, 08:42 PM
  #33  
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Begin slow, and learn the road: the bumps, the lump, and the hazards. That way all you have to do is concentrate on the traffic.


Originally Posted by Romyan
I have a heavy school backpack so I'm good for that and may need lights, but I'm home by 4 so I'm good.
Consider pannier. Heavy backpacks are too constricting (and also alter your ride dynamics) and take a lot of the joy out of cycling.
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Old 08-14-18, 10:36 PM
  #34  
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Mosquito Repellent

One of the worst experiences I've had is fixing a flat with no wind in a swamp. If you carry tire repair gear, throw in mosquito repellent. I carry the foil pack towelettes because they don't dry out.
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Old 08-15-18, 01:29 AM
  #35  
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Originally Posted by flangehead
One of the worst experiences I've had is fixing a flat with no wind in a swamp. If you carry tire repair gear, throw in mosquito repellent. I carry the foil pack towelettes because they don't dry out.
Location: Huston, TX.

As a former resident of south Florida, I can certainly relate to this experience. You stop for more than a moment and you'll likely be sucked dry before you get the tire off the bike. I'd carry mosquito netting if I road through those areas. However, its not nearly as critical in the more arid region of the nation.
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Old 08-16-18, 11:14 AM
  #36  
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One thing to keep in mind. 1.2 miles is within the range for a good walk, or jog commute.

If you choose to cycle, you might consider picking up a dedicated commuter bike. Choose the cheapest, ugliest bike that will wobble down the road. Trick it out with fenders & etc, and give it a good tune-up.

Depending on hills, even a singe speed cruiser will work, or any MTB outfitted with quality road tires.

But, keep your nice bike in reserve for more interesting rides.

Of course, then you run the risk of never actually riding your nice bike.
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